How To Disable Snapchat Calls (Stop Snapchat Calls)

Snapchat has transformed the way we communicate with friends and family, allowing users to share snippets of their lives through images, videos, and short messages that disappear after being viewed. Alongside these features, Snapchat also includes a calling function, which allows users to make voice and video calls directly within the app. While this feature can be convenient for some, others may find it intrusive or simply prefer not to use it. If you fall into the latter category, you might be wondering how to disable Snapchat calls or prevent unsolicited calls from your contacts.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore step-by-step methods to disable Snapchat calls, modify your privacy settings, and effectively control your communication on the platform. By the end of this article, you’ll have all the necessary information to regain control over your Snapchat experience.

Understanding Snapchat Calls

Before diving into the process of disabling Snapchat calls, it’s important to understand how the calling feature works. Like many other social media platforms, Snapchat allows users to connect through voice and video calls. This feature is embedded directly into the app, so there’s no need for a separate interface or app for calling purposes.

The primary function of Snapchat calls is to allow users to communicate in real-time, similar to traditional phone calls or through video chat platforms like Zoom or Skype. However, unlike these platforms, Snapchat’s call feature is intended for a more casual, ephemeral interaction typical of the app’s overarching design aesthetic.

However, there may come a time when you find Snapchat calls intrusive, whether due to constant interruptions or a simple preference for more traditional ways of communication. Fortunately, there are options available that allow you to manage or turn off these calls.

Method 1: Adjusting Your Privacy Settings

Step 1: Open Snapchat

Launch the Snapchat application on your mobile device. Ensure you are logged into your account.

Step 2: Navigate to Your Profile

Tap on your Bitmoji or profile icon located in the top-left corner of the screen. This action will take you to your profile.

Step 3: Access Your Settings

Once you are in your profile, look for the gear icon (⚙️) in the top-right corner. Tapping this icon will take you to the Settings menu.

Step 4: Find ‘Who Can…’ Options

Scroll down until you find the section titled ‘Who Can…’ This section allows you to control who can contact you on Snapchat.

Step 5: Adjust Call Settings

Under the ‘Who Can…’ menu, look for ‘Who Can Contact Me’. You will see several options, including:

Everyone
My Friends
My Friends Except…
Custom

By selecting ‘My Friends’ or ‘My Friends Except…’, you can limit the people who can call you. Choosing ‘My Friends Except…’ will allow you to exclude specific individuals from being able to contact you.

Step 6: Save your settings

Make sure to save the changes you’ve made and exit the settings menu.

By adjusting these settings, you significantly reduce the likelihood of receiving calls from strangers or unwanted contacts.

Method 2: Blocking Specific Contacts

If there are specific users who frequently call you and you’d rather not hear from them at all, you can block them outright. Here’s how:

Step 1: Open Snapchat and Go to Your Friends List

Launch the Snapchat application and access the friends list or go directly to the chat with the contact you wish to block.

Step 2: Access the Profile of the Contact

Tap on the name or Bitmoji of the contact you wish to block. This will take you to their profile page.

Step 3: Block the Contact

On the profile page, look for the three dots (⋮) in the top-right corner. Tap them, and select the ‘Block’ option. Confirm your action.

Blocking a contact will prevent them from calling you, sending you snaps, or messaging you entirely.

Method 3: Using Do Not Disturb Mode

If you want to keep your account open to contacts but would like to prevent notifications from Snapchat calls, consider using the ‘Do Not Disturb’ feature on your device. Here’s how to use this feature:

Step 1: Go to Your Device Settings

Open the settings application on your smartphone (this will vary slightly depending on whether you are using an iOS or Android device).

Step 2: Navigate to Notifications

Find and select the ‘Notifications’ option. Here, you will see a list of all applications installed on your device.

Step 3: Find Snapchat in Your List

Scroll down until you find ‘Snapchat’ in your list of applications. Tap on it to access the notification settings specific to Snapchat.

Step 4: Turn Off Call Notifications

In the Snapchat notification settings, you can opt to turn off notifications for calls. Simply toggle off the notifications or adjust the settings to enable ‘Do Not Disturb’ for Snapchat specifically.

Step 5: Adjust Do Not Disturb for Entire Device

If you want to ensure you are not disturbed by any calls or notifications while using Snapchat, you can activate the ‘Do Not Disturb’ feature of your device, which will silence all incoming calls and alerts.

Using the above method, you can still keep Snapchat calls enabled but avoid being distracted by incoming call notifications.

Method 4: Uninstalling Snapchat (Last Resort)

If Snapchat calls are completely disrupting your life and none of the above methods satisfies your need for privacy, you might consider uninstalling the app entirely. Here’s how to do it:

For iOS Devices:

Find Snapchat on your home screen.
Tap and hold the Snapchat app icon until all icons begin to shake.
Tap the ‘X’ in the corner of the Snapchat icon.
Confirm that you want to delete the app.

For Android Devices:

Open the app drawer to view all your applications.
Find Snapchat and tap and hold the icon.
Drag it to the ‘Uninstall’ option that appears at the top of your screen, or release it on ‘App Info’ and select ‘Uninstall’.
Confirm the action when prompted.

Do keep in mind that uninstalling Snapchat does not delete your account. Your account will still exist, and you can log back in whenever you decide to reinstall the app.

Additional Tips and Tricks

Beyond simply disabling calls, you may want to adopt a few best practices to better manage your Snapchat experience:

Use Ghost Mode

If you’re looking for more privacy overall on Snapchat, consider using ‘Ghost Mode’ to hide your location from others. You can find this option within the map settings.

Frequent Privacy Check-In

Make it a habit to periodically check your privacy settings and friend list on Snapchat. This allows you to adjust settings as necessary based on your comfort level with calls and interactions.

Utilize Other Communication Apps

If you find Snapchat calls cumbersome but want to stay connected, consider using more traditional methods to communicate with friends and family. Whether it’s through texting, email, or dedicated calling apps like Zoom or Skype, choosing the right tool for communication can enhance your experience.

Communicate Boundaries

Sometimes, simply informing your friends and contacts that you prefer to communicate through another avenue or that you’re currently avoiding calls can alleviate issues. Make your preferences known, and often your friends will be more than happy to accommodate your wishes.

Conclusion

Disabling Snapchat calls is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your user experience on the app. Whether through adjusting privacy settings, blocking specific contacts, enabling ‘Do Not Disturb’, or considering the more drastic measure of uninstalling the app, you have multiple avenues to explore based on your comfort needs.

Remember, social media should serve you — not the other way around. By taking proactive steps, you can create a more enjoyable and less intrusive Snapchat experience, allowing you to interact in ways that suit your lifestyle. Embrace these changes and take back control of your communication preferences today!